​of Montreal 100

of Montreal is an American rock band formed in Athens, Georgia in 1996 by Kevin Barnes, said to be named after Barnes' failed relationship with a woman from Montreal, Canada. The band was part of the second wave of the Elephant 6 musical collective, which spawned many notable independent bands of the 1990s. of Montreal’s lineup has fluctuated throughout its history, with Barnes being the only continuous member. The band’s eclectic musical style has evolved considerably since its formation, drawing inspiration from a variety of genres. Musically, of Montreal is known for using upbeat pop melodies in contrast to dark or cryptic lyrics, which are often character-driven or draw from Barnes' own lived experiences. Barnes also tends to employ sophisticated wordplay in their lyrics, showcasing their love of literature and unusual words and phrases.